Explore Japan with Spike!
Early November 2028
Trip Length: 9-12 days
Click Here to be notified when this tour opens for bookings!
Experience the very best of Japan on an unforgettable small-group tour that blends neon skylines, ancient temples, and serene nature into one perfectly paced adventure. Begin in Tokyo, where you’ll feel the buzz of Shibuya Crossing, wander back in time at Sensō-ji and Meiji Shrine, and explore character-filled districts like Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Akihabara before taking in the glittering cityscape from Tokyo Skytree. Then trade skyscrapers for sacred mountains with an optional day trip to the Mount Fuji area, soaking up iconic views from Hakone’s hot springs or the shores of Lake Kawaguchi. In Kyoto, step back in time into the heart of traditional Japan as you walk through the vermilion tunnels of Fushimi Inari, marvel at the shimmering Golden Pavilion, and stroll the historic streets near Kiyomizu-dera and Gion, with the option to meet the friendly deer of Nara and gaze up at Tōdai‑ji’s Great Buddha. Wrap up in vibrant Osaka, tasting your way through Dotonbori on a street food walk and exploring the grandeur of Osaka Castle before zipping back to Tokyo on the legendary Shinkansen bullet train. For those who want even more, an optional extension to Hiroshima and Miyajima offers a powerful and moving finale, from the Peace Memorial Park to the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine—an inspiring journey through Japan’s past, present, and unforgettable beauty. With a perfect blend of city excitement, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty, the tour I am building is a must for anyone eager to see the best of Japan. I hope you’ll join me! -Spike
Here’s a few of the things you may see in the itinerary I am still working on along with Japan travel experts and local guides:
Tokyo (3 days in the capital city)
- Shibuya Crossing: One of the busiest intersections in the world, symbolizing Tokyo’s energy.
- Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa: Tokyo’s oldest and most famous temple.
- Shinjuku is a vibrant, major hub in Tokyo known for its bustling entertainment, shopping, dining, and business districts, centered around the world’s busiest train station, Shinjuku Station
- Meiji Shrine: A peaceful shrine nestled in a forested area in the middle of the city.
- Sensō-ji: an ancient Buddhist temple in Asakusa (Tokyo’s oldest temple).
- Tokyo Skytree: The tallest structure in Japan, offering breathtaking views of the city.
- Odaiba: A futuristic man-made island with shopping malls, museums, and entertainment.
- Akihabara: The center of Japanese pop culture, especially for anime and gaming enthusiasts.
- Harajuku: Known for its unique fashion culture and the popular Takeshita Street.
- Ueno Park and its museums
- Lake Kawaguchi: Great for photos with Mount Fuji in the background.
- Hakone: Famous for its hot springs, museums, and scenic views of Mount Fuji.
- Oshino Hakkai: A beautiful village with traditional thatched-roof houses and crystal-clear ponds.
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of red torii gates leading up to the mountain.
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by a stunning garden.
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple: An iconic temple offering panoramic views of the city.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: A picturesque bamboo forest.
- Gion District: Famous for its traditional teahouses and geisha culture.
Nara (optional day trip from Kyoto)
- Tōdai‑ji’s Great Buddha
- Nara Park deer, Kasuga Taisha.
Osaka (3 days)
- A walking street food tour in this fun and modern food-centric city.
- Osaka Castle: A historic landmark from the 16th century, surrounded by beautiful parklands.
- Dotonbori: A lively entertainment district with neon lights and entertainment.
- (return to Tokyo on the Shinkansen bullet train)
- Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park & Museum
- Itsukushima Shrine’s iconic torii gate on Miyajima.
